Robert Demeritt

Robert (Bob) Wayne Demeritt, 67, of Leawood, KS, died May 14, 2012, at his home after a long illness. Bob was born May 9, 1945 in Peabody, MA, the third child of Harold and Edythe (Castle) Demeritt. He attended Peabody schools and Northeastern University before graduating in 1967 from the University of Michigan with a degree in Far Eastern Languages and Literature. He received his Master's Degree in Oriental Languages and Literature in 1975 from KU. In the 1970's he studied and taught in Taiwan and Japan. Upon his return to the United States, he worked as Director of International Relations and Continuing Education at JCCC. He married Mary Anne Vickery in 1978. He taught Chinese, Japanese, and history at the Barstow School for over 20 years. He brought enthusiasm, intellectual curiosity, and humor to the classroom. Bob was a man of many talents. Besides his mastery of several languages, he was a calligrapher, an excellent cook, an avid reader, a mentor to many, a wonderful listener, a great story teller, and a gracious host. Most of all, he was a steadfast friend and husband.
Bob is survived by his wife, Mary Anne; a stepdaughter, Amy (Brian) Engel; two grandchildren, Graham and Quinn, all of Lee's Summit; his brother, George Demeritt of Middleton, MA; two sisters, Susan Alesi of Chesapeake, VA and Beth Davidson of Peabody, MA. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Judy Marchesini. A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 19th, 1:00 PM, at D.W. Newcomer's Johnson County Chapel. Fellowship and refreshments will follow. The family suggests contributions to Kansas City Hospice, 9221 Ward Parkway, KC, MO 64114. Fond memories and condolences for the family may be left at
www.johnsoncountychapel.com
(Arrangements by D.W. Newcomer's Sons
Johnson County Chapel, 11200 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS 66210. (913) 451-1860)

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